Episode 1: The First Great Climb

The First Great Climb

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Almost 140 years ago, three men crossed from the Hebridean island of Lewis to the north west coast of Scotland. Their aim was audacious: to be the first people to stand on the top of the Great Stack of Handa, an isolated pillar of rock. Failure would have meant certain death. Success, won against all the odds, gave birth to a new sport.
Using the equipment and clothing of the time, three of Scotland's best climbers attempt to emulate a feat that is now almost forgotten.

Almost 140 years ago, three men crossed from the Hebridean island of Lewis to the north west coast of Scotland. Their aim was audacious: to be the first people to stand on the top of the Great Stack of Handa, an isolated pillar of rock. Failure would have meant certain death. Success, won against all the odds, gave birth to a new sport.
Using the equipment and clothing of the time, three of Scotland's best climbers attempt to emulate a feat that is now almost forgotten.